HSE targets workers at height in London blitz

Health and Safety Executive (HSE) inspectors will be targeting construction sites across the City of London at the end of the month to educate workers on the dangers of working at height.

HSE chief inspector of construction Kevin Myers said: "Falls from height remain the single biggest cause of death, disability and injury in construction, accounting for almost half of all deaths and nearly a third of major injuries in 2001/2. 

"I want to see dramatic improvements in the control and management of work at height. Not least because most of the incidents are easily avoidable and each represents suffering and misery for the individual concerned and their family."

HSE will be promoting improved ladder and step-ladder safety and aiming to eliminate the use of ladders wherever possible as a means of access or place of work, in favour of safer methods. 

Inspectors will advise that suitable precautions should be taken to ensure the safety of the user including: measures to prevent the ladder from slipping; a rigorous system for maintenance; and checking ladders for damage before use. 

The visits will also be used to remind contractors about the correct use of safety harnesses, including advice on safer alternatives; training; maintenance systems; an inspection regime; and a method for swift rescue.

Sites in the City have been selected because they employ a large number of subcontractors who are among the most common users of ladders and harnesses.